Rapunzel's Revenge

Title:  Rapunzel’s Revenge
Author: Shannon and Dean Hale
Illustrator: Nathan Hale
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Copyright: 2008
Price: $18.99
ISBN: 978-1-59990-070-4
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Have you ever wondered what happened to Rapunzel before she was placed into her tower of solitude? Did she live an idyllic life? Rapunzel’s Revenge tries to answer some of the before questions by presenting a young Rapunzel, who has an independent streak that causes Mother Gothel, her witch mother, no end of grief. One day though, Rapunzel goes too far, causing her to be locked away for four years. As time passes, she thinks, she reads, she eats, and she trains, especially when the day comes that she might never get out of the tower. When she escapes, she meets the possible Prince Charming of the fairy tales, only to trick him so she can make her way into the world. Rapunzel’s life is about to change as she is confronted with a world of hatred and “eat or be eaten” wild west world that Mother Gothel has created. With the help of Jack (of Beanstalk fame) and his goose Goldy, Rapunzel sets out on adventures to right the wrongs and end Mother Gothel’s reign, once and for all.
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Recommended Audience: Middle school and up.
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Things to be aware of:
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Further Thoughts: Take the wild west, mix in a little fairy tale of Rapunzel, Jack and the Beanstalk, and maybe even Hansel and Gretel and you have this book. Rapunzel is a strong character, very unlike the ones who wait in the tower for their prince to come along. This Rapunzel is out for a taste of adventure, and to save her real mother. While 20 feet of long hair as whips and lassos is slightly unbelievable, this is a fun romp of a heroine’s tale. I enjoyed discovering the world that she was in and facing some of the same feelings.

The art partially makes this title so believable. Hale (no relation to the authors) creates detailed scenes, living characters, and more as readers travel the story. Overall, this book deserves all the praise it has received over the years and is a fine fit in school libraries.
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Bonus: PA Young Readers Choice Nom.

Source: Library Copy.